FAQ

A: Details of the correspondence address, email address, and telephone number for Lambeth Palace can be found on the 'Contact' page of this site.

Q: Does the Archbishop read and reply to all the correspondence he receives?

A: The Archbishop values the letters and emails that people send to him and is grateful that so many take the trouble to write. He hopes correspondents will understand that because so many letters and emails are sent to him, he is unable to read or reply personally to many of them. In these circumstances he instructs his staff to reply on his behalf, in accordance with agreed policies, and is regularly informed about the nature and content of the incoming correspondence that he does not have the opportunity to see.

Sometimes a particular campaign, public debate or issue will generate a substantial amount of communication from the public, making it impossible for a reply to be issued to each individual correspondent. It is very much hoped that the absence of a reply in such cases will not be interpreted as a discourtesy, or a lack of interest in what they have to say.

Q: How can I visit / take a guided tour / hold an event at Lambeth Palace?

A: If you wish to extend an invitation to the Archbishop, please do so in writing using the details on the 'Contact' page. Do bear in mind that there are many demands on the Archbishop's time and as a result he is often unable to accept as many invitations as he would like.

Q: Can you tell me where my nearest church is?

A: If you are a UK resident the website 'A Church Near You' can give you details of where your nearest Anglican Church can be found.

Q: Where is Lambeth Palace?

A: Lambeth Palace is situated south of the Thames on Lambeth Palace Road, London. Click here to see a map showing the location of Lambeth Palace.

Q: Does the Archbishop really live at Lambeth Palace?

A: The Archbishop of Canterbury lives in a flat in part of the Palace. It is his official London residence.

He is also able to use accommodation at ‘The Old Palace’ in the precincts of Canterbury Cathedral when he is in Canterbury Diocese.

Q: How old is Lambeth Palace?

A: The oldest parts of Lambeth Palace date back to 1197. Morton's Tower, the main entrance to the Palace was constructed in approximately 1490. The Great Hall, now part of Lambeth Palace Library was reconstructed by Archbishop Juxon after 1660. The main sections of the Palace that you will see today were designed by Architect William Blore in 1833. The newest section of the Palace, the Atrium, was opened by The Prince of Wales in the year 2000.